First look at town's regeneration plans

Plans to redevelop a town centre, that has been without a permanent market or theatre for two years, have been unveiled.

People in Barrow, Cumbria, are being consulted on plans for a new theatre venue, homes, retail and commercial space, public areas and parking provision.

Team Barrow, which is leading on the redevelopment project, said the plans were "concepts rather than final designs" and were intended to help people visualise what could be possible.

The town is set to undergo a 10-year regeneration project, with the first phase expected to cost about £23m. It follows plans to demolish Barrow's market hall and theatre over concerns about asbestos.

Consultations are being held until Saturday and would help "inform the next stages as the plans continue to be developed and refined", Team Barrow said.

Team Barrow's interim chief executive Andrew Bennett, said: "Some of you may be excited by what you see. Some of you may have concerns. Some of you may have challenging questions.

"That's absolutely okay. In fact, we welcome it."

Team Barrow said the plans responded to "long-held concerns and frustrations about the town centre".

Both The Forum and Market Hall shut in 2024 and are due to be demolished in 2028.

Plans by the group were previously criticised for their lack of detail and the area's Labour MP Michelle Scrogham called for the project to be brought under "proper local control".

Consultation events are being held at Barrow Town Hall from 11:00 BST to 19:00 and on Saturday 3 October at The Bridge on Portland Walk from 10:00 to 15:00, in partnership with Westmorland and Furness Council.

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